A problem is an obstacle, impediment, difficulty or challenge, or any situation that invites resolution; the resolution of which is recognized as a solution or contribution toward a known purpose or goal. A problem implies a desired outcome coupled with an apparent deficiency, doubt or inconsistency that prevents the outcome from taking place.

  Examples

• Mathematical problem is a question about mathematical objects and structures that may require a distinct answer or explanation or proof. Examples include word problems at school level or deeper problems such as shading a map with only four colours.
• In society, a problem can refer to particular social issues, which if solved would yield social benefits, such as increased harmony or productivity, and conversely diminished hostility and disruption.
  See also: Wicked problem
• In business and engineering, a problem is a difference between actual conditions and those that are required or desired. Often, the causes of a problem are not known, in which case root cause analysis is employed to find the causes and identify corrective actions.
• In chess, a problem is a puzzle set by somebody using chess pieces on a chess board, for others to get instruction or intellectual satisfaction from determining the solution.
• In theology, there is what is referred to as the Synoptic Problem, regarding the Gospels' relationship to each other.
• In academic discourse a problem is a challenge to an assumption, an apparent conflict that requires synthesis and reconciliation. It is a normal part of systematic thinking, the address of which adds to or detracts from the veracity of a conclusion or idea.
• An optimization problem is finding the best solution from all feasible solutions. A good example of this type of problem is the travelling salesperson problem which is based on calculating the most efficient route between many places
• In computability theory a decision problem requires a simple yes-or-no answer.
• In rock climbing a problem is a series of rocks that forces the climber to climb.
• In reading, a problem is a combination of a series of words with the overall plotline, which the reader must attempt to decipher.
• In walking, a mobility problem is presented. Motion is achieved via mechanical interaction of the legs and a surface.

  See also

• Heuristic
• How to Solve It
• Question
• Problem-based learning
• Problematization
• Worry

  External links

• Problems Problem brainstorming site with tools to solve them.

  References